Mixed-Mode Delamination of a Composite Laminate
Application ID: 76331
Interfacial failure or delamination in a composite material can be simulated with a cohesive zone model (CZM). A key ingredient of a cohesive zone model is a traction-separation law that describes the softening in the cohesive zone near the delamination tip. This example shows the implementation of a CZM with a bilinear traction-separation law in a laminated composite using the Layered Shell interface. The capabilities of the CZM to predict mixed-mode softening and delamination propagation are demonstrated in the model.
This example is an extension of the Mixed-Mode Debonding of a Laminated Composite model from the Structural Mechanics Module. The results from this model computed with the Layered Shell interface are compared with the model created using the Solid Mechanics interface.
This model example illustrates applications of this type that would nominally be built using the following products:
however, additional products may be required to completely define and model it. Furthermore, this example may also be defined and modeled using components from the following product combinations:
- COMSOL Multiphysics® and
- Composite Materials Module and
- either the MEMS Module, or Structural Mechanics Module
The combination of COMSOL® products required to model your application depends on several factors and may include boundary conditions, material properties, physics interfaces, and part libraries. Particular functionality may be common to several products. To determine the right combination of products for your modeling needs, review the Specification Chart and make use of a free evaluation license. The COMSOL Sales and Support teams are available for answering any questions you may have regarding this.